Rent is about $1,209/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. The weather takes some getting used to. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood.
4 upvotes
13 Replies
Kai Cook
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. Feel free to reach out with questions..
35 upvotes
happy_harper88
We moved here with our family and it's been a really good experience overall. Schools in North area are decent. Kids love it here.
34 upvotes
Isaiah
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value nightlife, you'll love it. The dating scene is genuinely improving and I've found it exceeded my expectations. My neighborhood (South) is competitive and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Seattle, be prepared for the culture shock. food scene is completely different here. And Limited public transit options.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
33 upvotes
Nora Torres
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is surprisingly good in most areas.
30 upvotes
raised_aiden84
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Portland and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Older homes are where the value is. We're paying /mo for a 3-bed in Uptown. It's better than expected for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in healthcare you might struggle.
People: Generally challenging. It took about 18 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: improving. Tons of options if you like sushi.
It's not for everyone but it works for us..
28 upvotes
Sarah Patel
The food scene here is decent. Tons of great Korean places. it was the best decision I ever made.
27 upvotes
Hannah Price
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Southern places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
26 upvotes
Jordan Ruiz
couldn't agree more
23 upvotes
Hunter Miller
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 6 years ago from Salt Lake City and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Highland. It's decent for what you get.
Jobs: The market is affordable right now, especially in legal. If you're in hospitality you might struggle.
People: Generally surprisingly good. It took about 10 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: surprisingly good. Tons of options if you like Mediterranean.
Hope this helps!.
20 upvotes
Willow Ward
I'm a teacher and I've found it exceeded my expectations. The community is solid and there's always something going on.
20 upvotes
Robert Garcia
thanks for sharing
11 upvotes
Mason Baker
great question, following
9 upvotes
Jonathan R.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a marketing manager who relocated here from Phoenix about 15 years ago. The main reasons were retirement and retirement.
Pros I've experienced:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Strong sense of community
Cons that are real:
- Winters are long and cold
- Chain restaurants dominate
Financially, we've found it tough compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are manageable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, the quality of life is solid. No regrets on my end..
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